In the summer of 2024, Ben Rössler and Felix Königshoven began a new chapter in their football careers: they moved from Grafschafter JSG to the U15 team of Ahrweiler BC and have since been playing in the Rheinlandliga, the highest regional league. This is a challenge that the two 14-year-old talents have so far mastered with flying colors. Youth manager Gerd Treffer sums it up: "We are delighted that two such great lads have found their way to us. They are an asset to our club, both athletically and personally."
From a New Beginning to a Success Story
The move was an opportunity for both players to prove themselves at the highest level – and a step into a new environment. Ben Rössler recalls: "I was welcomed with open arms. The team is great, and I've had a lot of fun being part of the squad since day one." Felix Königshoven shares this experience: "You can feel the difference between the leagues, but I've settled in well and was welcomed wonderfully by the team. That helped me get my feet under the table quickly."
The fact that the two have not only arrived but are also convincing athletically is underlined by their previous performances. Together with their team, they managed to qualify for the championship round of the Rheinlandliga – a milestone, as Felix emphasizes: "I'm proud that we've reached the championship round. It shows how well we function as a team."
COACHING AS THE KEY TO SUCCESS
A success that is also the result of excellent coaching. While they were shaped by Raphael and Alexander Fuchs at Grafschafter JSG, they are now benefiting from their current coaches Oliver Johann-Ewy and Timo Schäfer. "I learned a lot from all four coaches," says Felix. "Raphael and Alex were the first to really nurture me, and now Oliver and Timo are supporting me in developing my game further."
Youth leader Gerd Treffer praises the development of the two new arrivals: "Ben and Felix have already developed well. This shows that our approach of relying on talented and local players - as arduous as it may be - is the right one. These lads are the heart of our club."
BEN RÖSSLER: TECHNIQUE AND SPEED ON THE WINGS
Ben Rössler, who prefers the two offensive wide positions, possesses good technique and commitment. His role model is Cristiano Ronaldo, and like the Portuguese superstar, Ben is constantly working on himself: "I want to improve my tackling strength and further expand my strengths." He is satisfied with the season so far: "As a team, we achieved great success by qualifying for the championship round. But we know that more is possible."
On an individual level, Ben also sets clear goals: "I want to work on my weaknesses and improve step by step. The move to ABC was the right decision. It's a great experience to play in the Rheinlandliga."
FELIX KÖNIGSHOVEN: DEFENSIVE STABILITY AND COMMUNICATION
Felix Königshoven, the team's left-back, stands out primarily for his defensive qualities and strong communication on the field. While his role model Lionel Messi may be known for his offensive magic, Felix focuses on his own strengths: "My defending is my greatest quality, but I want to improve my right foot and become more versatile overall."
He describes his role on the team modestly, but with self-confidence: "I think I play an important role for the team now. My goal is to get as much playing time as possible and to continuously develop."
TOGETHER INTO THE FUTURE
With ambitious goals for the second half of the season, Ben and Felix want to continue to make waves. "As a team, we want to get into the top 5 and win as many games as possible," says Felix. And Ben adds, "We've already achieved a lot, but we can still get better."
Youth leader Gerd Treffer looks optimistically into the future: "The boys, as well as their teammates and the talents of the U14s, are on a great path. It's a joy to see their development. With such players, we are creating a strong foundation for the future of Ahrweiler BC."